An emergency at Rochester Bridge has ended after a man who was perched on a ledge climbed back to safety.

The busy crossing was closed this afternoon as police negotiators spoke to the man who was threatening to jump.

A lifeboat was also launched during the incident as specialist officers leaned over the side of the bridge to reason with him.

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The man, who is wearing a black bomber jacket, was sitting on the side of the bridge with his legs dangling.

He is understood to be in his 20s and has now been taken into police custody for his own safety.

The crossing was closed to traffic travelling from Rochester to Strood but vehicles were still allowed to travel in the opposite direction.

Video: Rochester Bridge closed after concerns raised for a man's welfare

Motorists caught up in the drama are being forced by police to turn around with a Coastguard vehicle blocking entry to the Strood-bound lanes.